Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, often called a Toller, is a medium-sized sporting dog breed developed in Nova Scotia, Canada, in the 19th century.

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, often called a Toller, is a medium-sized sporting dog breed developed in Nova Scotia, Canada, in the 19th century. It is the smallest retriever breed and was bred to lure and retrieve waterfowl. The breed is known for its intelligence, energy, and distinctive red coat with white markings, and is one of Canada’s best-known native dog breeds.

History

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever was developed in the Little River district of Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia, in the early 19th century. It was bred for a specialized hunting method in which the dog’s movement attracts ducks close enough for the hunter to shoot them, after which the dog retrieves the birds.

Appearance and temperament

Tollers are medium-sized retrievers with a compact, athletic build and a dense, water-repellent coat. Sources describe them as energetic, intelligent, alert, and highly active dogs suited to vigorous exercise and work.

Breed recognition

The breed was recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club in 1945 and later by the United Kennel Club in 1987. It is also recognized by the American Kennel Club as a retriever breed.

Name and function

The term 'tolling' refers to the act of luring waterfowl toward the shoreline using the dog’s playful movement. The breed’s historical role combines decoy work and retrieving, making it distinct among retrievers.